Come out to the Sacramento Poetry Center (1719 25th St., between Q and R streets) this Friday night, Jan. 27, to hear an excerpt from Granite Bay-based author Renée Thompson's second novel, The Plume Hunter. Thompson, an avid birder and writer of the American West, has drawn on her experience and passion to write about men who shot birds at the turn of the 19th century to sell feathers for women's hats. The book, which is full of rich characters, conflict and gorgeous descriptions of women's hats, also touches on the formation of the National Audubon Society.

The excerpt will be presented as part of the second anniversary celebration of Stories on Stage, which kicks off at 7 p.m. with a reception, followed by readings by local actors. In addition to hearing Thompson's work—which will be read by Jeff Webster—the audience will listen to Stories on Stage casting director Victoria Goldblatt read renowned local author Jodi Angel's story, "You Are Here Today." In between acts, writer/musician David Berkeley will perform.

The Plume Hunter will be available for purchase at the event—buy it and pick up a free copy of Thompson's first novel, The Bridge at Valentine. Angel's short story collection, The History of Vegas, and Berkeley's book of essays, 140 Goats and a Guitar, also will be on sale.

A donation of $5 is requested. Bring a bottle of wine to share and nab a free raffle ticket to win a book.